Ever wonder why we call half baths “powder rooms?” (We’ll take 18th Century Quirks for $400, Alex!)
As it turns out, the powder room was where one went to refresh their powdered wig and nose or to make a quick retreat from boorish conversation (yawn!). Typically, the powder room was a water closet near the formal entertaining room, making it convenient for guests needing a moment to themselves.
Today’s powder room has not strayed from the original floor plan, nor has it grown in square footage or expanded beyond the basic amenities of toilet, sink, and fancy, guests-only hand towels. Whathaschanged is the design potential to transform these tiny spaces into rooms that make a huge statement.
The most important thing to remember when designing a powder room is that it’s not just a small bathroom. It’s the jewel box of your home that will delight your guests the moment they open the door – making it an excellent place to unleash your creativity and have fun with Benjamin Moore colours, patterns and finishes. We think it might just be the most exciting room in the house to paint!
Six tips on turning your powder room into a WOW!der room:
Go bold for high impact: That old-school rule about small rooms having to be painted white or a light colour is history – now is the time to go big and bold! Remember that because there isn’t a lot of extra elbow room for accessories, paint is the main design element in a pretty powder room.
Play up the personality: The powder room is a defined space. It’s separate and apart from other rooms in your home, so behind the door should be a very distinct colour personality that won’t interrupt the visual flow of your living space.
Paint the fifth wall: Painting the entire room – and by that, we mean the ceiling too – in one deep, rich colour creates a sophisticated and dramatic effect. Or step outside the box and showcase a standout ceiling by painting it in a different colour.
The one with the mirror: If you want to create one accent wall, go with the one behind the vanity. Try a higher sheen, bold colour here that delivers the kind of glaze that commands attention.
Paper, doll: Whether you’re going for glamorous or whimsical, it’s easy to add pizzazz to the powder room with modern vinyl wallpapers available in a wide spectrum of bold patterns, textures and even shiny, metallic finishes.
No risk, no reward: Love Benjamin Moore’s Raspberry Mousse 2076-40 or Rumba Orange 2014-20 but can’t quite bring yourself to using them elsewhere in the house? The powder room is the best place to roll the dice and take a risk. Bonus: its small size makes this space easy to change up on a whim or make over as your colour preferences or style trends evolve.
Ask our in-store paint and design experts for more great tips on revamping your powder room when you come in to buy your paint and paint accessories.
